7 Best Phnom Penh Dishes You Should Not Miss

Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city of Cambodia, is a food lover's paradise. With a rich culinary heritage influenced by Khmer, Chinese, and French cuisines, Phnom Penh offers a tantalizing array of flavors and dishes that will delight your taste buds. In this article, we unveil the top seven must-try dishes that should be on every food enthusiast's list when visiting Phnom Penh.

Fish Amok: A Cambodian classic, Fish Amok is a delicately spiced fish curry steamed in banana leaves. The tender fish, combined with a fragrant blend of lemongrass, galangal, and coconut milk, creates a creamy and aromatic dish that represents the essence of Khmer cuisine.
Khmer Red Curry: Bursting with flavors, Khmer Red Curry is a hearty dish made with a variety of spices, chili paste, and coconut milk. Served with meat (often beef or chicken), vegetables, and fragrant jasmine rice, this fiery and flavorful curry is a true culinary delight.
Nom Banh Chok: A popular breakfast dish in Phnom Penh, Nom Banh Chok features rice noodles topped with a fish-based green curry sauce and an assortment of fresh herbs and vegetables. This refreshing and savory dish provides a delightful start to your day.
Lok Lak: Lok Lak is a beloved Cambodian dish consisting of tender beef or chicken stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and a tangy sauce made from lime juice, fish sauce, and black pepper. Served with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables, this dish offers a harmonious balance of flavors.
Bai Sach Chrouk: For a hearty breakfast option, try Bai Sach Chrouk, which consists of marinated grilled pork served over fragrant jasmine rice and accompanied by pickled vegetables and a side of sweet and savory sauce. This traditional Cambodian dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Khmer Noodles (Nom Banh Chok): Another noodle dish worth mentioning is Khmer Noodles. Made with thin rice noodles, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a flavorful broth, this dish is often topped with your choice of meat or seafood. Its light yet satisfying flavors make it a popular choice for lunch or dinner.
Num Pang: When it comes to street food, Num Pang is a must-try. Similar to Vietnamese banh mi, Num Pang is a delicious baguette sandwich filled with a variety of ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. The combination of flavors and textures in this portable delight is simply irresistible.

Phnom Penh's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, offering an array of dishes that showcase the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Cambodia. From traditional Khmer curries to delectable street food, exploring the city's gastronomic delights is an adventure in itself. Make sure to indulge in Fish Amok, Khmer Red Curry, and other mouthwatering specialties to truly experience the vibrant flavors of Phnom Penh. Embark on a culinary journey and let your taste buds be mesmerized by the exquisite dishes that this enchanting city has to offer.